RN Programs in Walla Walla, Washington
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Walla Walla, Washington
Are you thinking about becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Walla Walla, Washington? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from local RN programs to employment opportunities and certification requirements. Let’s dive in and explore how you can start your rewarding career as an RN.
Why Become an RN in Walla Walla?
Walla Walla, known for its charming downtown and beautiful vineyards, is a fantastic place to start your nursing career. With a supportive community and high demand for healthcare professionals, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. Plus, the average salary for RNs in Washington is $82,670 per year, with a promising job outlook. For more information on job growth, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ RN page.
To learn more about Walla Walla, visit the official city website.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
Before you can enroll in an RN program, there are a few prerequisites you’ll need to meet. These typically include:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age of 18
- Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
- A satisfactory score on entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
- Background check and immunizations
Each school may have additional requirements, so be sure to check the specific prerequisites for the programs you’re interested in.
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs generally consist of both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
- Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Nutrition
- Nursing Courses: Foundations of Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Maternal-Newborn Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing
- Clinical Training: Supervised clinical rotations in various healthcare settings to gain practical experience
RN Training Programs in Walla Walla, Washington
Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Walla Walla:
- Walla Walla Community College
- Location: 500 Tausick Way, Walla Walla, WA 99362
- Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Description: Walla Walla Community College offers a comprehensive ADN program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience in local healthcare facilities.
- Program Page: Walla Walla Community College ADN Program
- Whitman College
- Location: 345 Boyer Ave, Walla Walla, WA 99362
- Program: Pre-Nursing Program
- Description: While Whitman College does not offer a direct RN program, it provides a robust pre-nursing curriculum that prepares students for transfer to a nursing school. This program includes foundational courses in sciences and humanities.
- Program Page: Whitman College Pre-Nursing Program
- Walla Walla University
- Location: 204 S College Ave, College Place, WA 99324 (4 miles from Walla Walla)
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Description: Walla Walla University offers a BSN program designed to provide a strong academic and clinical foundation. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN and a career in nursing.
- Program Page: Walla Walla University BSN Program
RN Employment Opportunities in Walla Walla
Walla Walla is home to several major healthcare facilities that offer employment opportunities for RNs:
- Providence St. Mary Medical Center
- Location: 401 W Poplar St, Walla Walla, WA 99362
- Description: Providence St. Mary Medical Center is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of medical services. They have an active recruitment for RNs in various specialties.
- Employment Opportunities: Providence St. Mary Medical Center Careers
- Walla Walla VA Medical Center
- Location: 77 Wainwright Dr, Walla Walla, WA 99362
- Description: This VA Medical Center provides comprehensive care to veterans and offers numerous RN positions in different departments.
- Employment Opportunities: Walla Walla VA Medical Center Careers
- Walla Walla General Hospital
- Location: 1025 S 2nd Ave, Walla Walla, WA 99362
- Description: Although currently transitioning, Walla Walla General Hospital has been a significant player in local healthcare and continues to offer diverse opportunities for RNs.
- Employment Opportunities: Walla Walla General Hospital Careers
RN Certification Requirements
To practice as an RN in Washington, you must:
- Graduate from an accredited nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Apply for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health
- Complete continuing education requirements as mandated by the state
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Walla Walla can vary. For example, tuition at Walla Walla Community College is approximately $4,000 per year for in-state students, while Whitman College and Walla Walla University can be significantly higher. Financial aid options are available and may include federal aid, scholarships, and grants. Check with the financial aid office at each institution for specific details.
Licensure Reciprocity
Washington State is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving to Washington from another state, you’ll need to verify your credentials and may need to meet additional state-specific requirements. More information can be found on the Washington State Department of Health’s website.
Get Started Today
Ready to take the next step in your nursing career? Contact one of the schools listed above to learn more about their programs and start your journey to becoming an RN in Walla Walla, Washington. Your future in healthcare awaits!
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Walla Walla RN Programs?
RN programs (both campus-based & online RN courses) are medical training programs offered by universities, vocational or technical schools, and community or junior colleges. Some hospitals even offer registered nursing training as an RN diploma.
How do I become an licensed RN?
Each state sets its own RN licensure requirements. In order to earn your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX® examination. The NCLEX® is a comprehensive nursing exam that can only be taken by graduates of nursing programs approved by your state's board of nursing.
Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?
No you don't need to complete LPN training before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN Associate Degree program takes 2 years. You can earn your RN Diploma in 3 years. (BSN - 4 years, RN to BSN degrees can be 2-3 years).
Are There Free Nursing Schools in Walla Walla?
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Washington. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Washington. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.
Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in Washington.
RN Job Description
Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation.